52 fun things to do in Ottawa this weekend | July 10-12

With over 70 authors, publishers, and craft vendors in attendance, browse new releases and indie author gems, get books signed, and meet your new favourite authors. General admission is FREE. For mature audiences only — a welcoming, shame-free space for everyone who loves romance. Free underground parking available.
When: Saturday, July 11, 11am-4pm.
Where: Ottawa Conference & Event Centre, 200 Coventry Road, Ottawa

11. Orléans Unplugged

Enjoy a free outdoor music series on Fridays in the heart of Orléans! Orléans Unplugged brings local talent, community vibes, and laid-back summer evenings to the Orléans Town Centre courtyard. Settle into your own chair or grab a spot on a nearby patio and enjoy live acoustic performances in a relaxed outdoor setting. Bring your own chair. FREE.
When: Friday July 10 and consecutive Fridays at 6pm.
Where: Orléans Town Centre Courtyard, 250 Centrum Boulevard, Orléans

12. All British Car Day 2026

Come marvel at some of the most iconic classic cars ever to roll out of Great Britain at the 16th annual All British Car Day! Clarke Fields Park transforms into a stunning showcase of legendary British marques including Rolls Royce, Bentley, MG, Austin-Healey, Triumph, Jaguar, Lotus, Land Rover, Sunbeam, and Mini. This year’s featured marque is the Lotus Europa, which debuted in 1966. The event also supports the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada. FREE admission for the general public.
When: Saturday, July 11, 10am-3pm.
Where: Clarke Fields Park, 93 Houlahan Street, Nepean

13. Music in the Park – presented by Ottawa Jazz Fest

Enjoy a free outdoor concert in the heart of Zibi this summer, presented by the Ottawa Jazz Festival! Part of a monthly series running from June through September, each concert brings a dynamic lineup of genres — from funk and Brazilian samba to the soulful sounds of the African harp and more. Beer will be available for purchase on-site from Dominion City Brewing Co. Limited paid parking available for $5. FREE admission.
When: Wednesday, July 8, 7pm-8pm.
Where: Head Street Square, 310 Miwate Private, Zibi (rain location: The Warehouse, 28 Booth Street)

14. Fetch Local Markets

Come celebrate local love, and bring your pup! Fetch Local Markets is a monthly dog-friendly outdoor market featuring 30+ local makers offering unique handmade goods, art, and more. Browse, shop, and enjoy a fun evening out with your four-legged friend. Leashes required. FREE admission.
When: Saturday, July 11, 4pm-9pm.
Where: Ray Friel Recreation Complex, 1585 Tenth Line Road, Orléans

15. Zumba on the Hill

Ditch the gym and dance in front of Parliament instead. Ottawa’s beloved free weekly Zumba classes are back on the Hill for another summer. All levels welcome, no experience needed, just bring your energy. Free admission.
When: Sunday July 12, 4pm
Where: Parliament Hill, Ottawa

16. Company of Fools: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Experience a spectacular 1970s disco-inspired Shakespearean comedy performance during a charming moonlit outdoor park theater. Pay what you can (Recommended donation $20) When: Jun 29–Aug 15, 7pm. Where: Glandriel Park, Orleans (July 8), Greenboro Park (July 9);  Fisher Heights Park, Nepean (July 10); Westboro Kiwanis Park (July 11). Details: www.fools.ca

17. Ottawa Summer Tournaments

World-class show jumping comes to Wesley Clover Parks for two weeks of thrilling equestrian competition right in Ottawa’s backyard. Expect elite riders, local vendors, food trucks, family activities, and plenty of reasons to stay all day. Tickets from $18.35, free for kids 12 and under.
When: July 7–12
Where: Wesley Clover Parks, 401 Corkstown Road, Ottawa

18. Music and Beyond Festival

Now in its 16th season, this beloved Ottawa festival weaves classical music together with jazz, dance, poetry, theatre, and more — across 40+ concerts in unique venues throughout the city. This year’s highlights include The King’s Singers, Kim Richardson sings Duke Ellington, and a special five-concert series celebrating Ottawa’s 200th birthday. Tickets vary by event.
When: July 4–17
Where: Various venues across Ottawa
More info: https://musicandbeyond.ca/

19. Hintonburg 5K and 1K

Ottawa’s funkiest little road race is back for its 18th year; an urban run through the streets of Hintonburg with a lively community vibe and cake waiting at the finish line. All levels welcome, from seasoned runners to first-timers and families. Adult 5K: $44.73 + tax, YOUTH 5K (12 and under): $23.07 + tax, Kids 1K is FREE.
When: Sunday, July 12, 5K: 9am, 1K: 8am
Where: Parkdale Park, Ottawa, Ontario

20. Ottawa BlackJacks vs. Brampton Honey Badgers

The BlackJacks are back at TD Place to take on the Brampton Honey Badgers in what’s shaping up to be a competitive Eastern Conference matchup. Fast-paced CEBL hoops, great atmosphere, and a perfect Sunday afternoon outing for the whole family.
When: Sunday, July 12, 4pm
Where: The Arena at TD Place, Ottawa

21. Ottawa Titans Games

Catch an exciting night of professional baseball as the Ottawa Titans take on the New Jersey Jackals and the Tri-City ValleyCats. Enjoy big plays and a fun ballpark atmosphere with family-friendly entertainment, food, and activities throughout the game. Tickets: $22.60.
When: vs NJ Jackals July 8-9 at 6:30pm. Vs. Tri-City ValleyCats July 10 at 7pm and July 11 at 6pm.
Where: Ottawa Stadium, 300 Coventry Rd, Ottawa.

More fun things to do in Ottawa

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

22. Les souvenirs du sable, Ottawa 2026

This touching French theatre performance tells the story of Alma, a young girl who explores memories of her father and learns to rebuild happiness after loss. Through storytelling, imagination, and beautiful stage elements, the show explores grief, love, and the strength children can find within themselves. Tickets: $15.
When: July 8-11, 11am and 2pm.
Where: Fourth Stage, National Arts Centre, 1 Elgin Street, Ottawa, ON.

23. Green Drinks

Join us for Green Drinks on Thursday, July 9 at The Prescott! We are very excited to welcome Serena Mendizabal, Managing Director at Sacred Earth Solar, coming all the way from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory to join us for this special Green Drinks. Serena will share insights on how clean energy projects can both empower communities and care for our planet. Join us to talk climate justice, network with the local environmental community, and, as always, enjoy free pizza! FREE.
When: Thursday July 9, 5:30pm-7pm
Where: The Prescott, 379 Preston St.
More info at cafesottawa.ca

Saturday

24. Indigenous Walking Tours

See Ottawa through a completely different lens on these guided walks led by Métis artist and educator Jaime Morse, exploring how downtown’s monuments, architecture, and landscapes tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 11, 10:30am-10:30pm
Where: Ottawa City Hall, 110 Laurier Avenue West, Ottawa.

25. Venezuela Earthquake Relief Concert

Enjoy an afternoon and evening of live music featuring 10 local artists, great food, raffles, and a chance to make a real difference. All proceeds from ticket sales, food, raffles, and donations will support humanitarian relief efforts through Canadian Global Response, a registered Canadian charity. Tickets: $22. When: Saturday, July 11, 2pm–7pm. Where: Boujie, 175A Promenade du Portage, Gatineau, QC J8X 2K2.  Details: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/venezuela-earthquake-relief-concert-tickets-1992858597712

26. Vankleek PorchFest

Enjoy a fun community music festival where local musicians perform live shows from front porches throughout Vankleek Hill. Visitors can walk around the neighbourhood, discover different performers, and enjoy a relaxed day filled with music, community, and local charm. It’s an outdoor event perfect for families, friends, and music lovers. FREE.
When: Saturday, July 11, 12pm–8:30pm.
Where: Vankleek Hill, ON.

Sunday

27. Ottawa Mushroom Society Walk

Explore the fascinating world of fungi with the Ottawa Mushroom Society on a guided nature walk. Participants will learn how to identify local mushrooms, discover interesting facts about fungi, and understand their role in the environment. The walk is beginner-friendly and perfect for nature lovers. Tickets: $17.55.
When: Sunday, July 12, 2pm.
Where: South March Highlands Trail Network, Klondike Road, Ottawa.

28. Vintage Vehicle Experience, Ottawa 2026

Step back in time and explore a collection of classic vehicles from different eras. This event lets visitors admire vintage cars, learn about their history, and connect with passionate collectors who share stories about these unique automobiles. Tickets: $9.42.
When: Sunday, July 12, 10am-3pm.
Where: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum, 2940 Old Montreal Road, Cumberland, ON.